Injury concerns for Dons as late goal saves blushes
BUCKIE THISTLE 1 Barry (49)
ABERDEEN 2
Ramirez (pen, 64), Kennedy (88)
Jim Goodwin admitted that Joe Lewis is set to face competition for the Aberdeen
No. 1 jersey this season as the Dons boss confirmed that they are closing in on a deal to sign a new goalkeeper.
The Reds have been linked with a move for Derby County stopper Kelle Roos with Goodwin keen for a quality goalkeeper to battle Lewis for a starting spot.
Lewis started for the Dons as they kicked off their pre-season preparations with victory over Buckie Thistle but he is set to face stiff competition for a starting berth when the campaign gets underway.
Goodwin said: “Obviously Gary Woods has moved on. I don’t think we had good enough competition in that area last season.
“Joe Lewis is a fantastic goalkeeper and has been a great servant to Aberdeen. He’s got two years left on his contract but I want someone in there alongside Joe, both competing for that No. 1 spot.
“We’re talking to goalkeepers but as of right now, nothing has been confirmed.”
The Aberdeen manager also revealed Declan Gallagher has been given permission to seek out a new club, with Tranmere Rovers understood to be interested.
Gallagher wasn’t in the squad for the trip to Victoria Park having suffered a slight knock in training on Friday.
Goodwin said: “We’ve signed Liam Scales, Anthony Stewart and we’ve got David Bates and Gallagher there as well. One or two of the guys may become surplus to requirements.
“We’re not going to stand in anybody’s way.”
Aberdeen won 2-1 through goals from Christian Ramirez and Matty Kennedy after Max Barry had given the hosts the lead early in the second half.
However, injuries to Connor Barron, Jack Mackenzie and Kennedy took the shine off the victory.
Goodwin said: “Mackenzie came off with a bit of a thigh strain. Hopefully it’s not too serious. Connor went into a stupid tackle which he shouldn’t have gone into and he looks as though he’s twisted his knee a little bit.
“Matty Kennedy came off towards the end with a tight hamstring. Of the three, Mackenzie’s is looking the more concerning at the minute.”